Leslie A. Harrelson’s diverse practice focuses on issues affecting institutions and companies in the education, defense and technology sectors. She counsels clients on regulatory compliance, government contract and legislative-related matters.

Ms. Harrelson advises for-profit and non-profit government contractors and grant recipients on contract and grant administration issues; subcontracting issues; claims, disputes and terminations; and contract compliance issues including, among others, foreign source restrictions, small business eligibility and preferences, and allocation of government rights in and US manufacturing preferences regarding patents, software and technological data. 

For exporters, Ms. Harrelson provides guidance to clients regarding the export and import of dual use and military products under the Export Administration Regulations and the International Traffic in Arms Regulations. 

Ms. Harrelson also advises institutions of higher education and educational companies on a variety of issues arising under the Elementary and Secondary Education Act, Higher Education Act and related regulations. In particular, Ms. Harrelson counsels clients on student and children’s privacy issues. 

Ms. Harrelson regularly performs due diligence in connection with large and small government contractors in the defense and education industries, where she has represented both divesting companies and acquiring companies. In transactions involving acquisitions by non-US companies, Ms. Harrelson advises on national security considerations and interactions with the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States.  

Professional Activities